Campus News

Blood Drive, Volleyball Game Raise Funds for Girl with Leukemia10/12/2011

The University of St. Thomas is known as close-knit community that feels like family. St. Thomas’ characteristic spirit of community will once again come to light when the Lady Celts volleyball team hosts “Orange Out Leukemia Night,” a blood drive, fundraiser and volleyball game in support of Sydney Marquis on Thursday, Oct. 13.

Marquis, the 11-year-old niece of UST Psychology Associate Professor Dr. Jo Meier-Marquis, was diagnosed with leukemia in July shortly after trying out for her middle school volleyball team. The Marquis family is raising funds to support her treatments and to support leukemia research.

“The Lady Celts dedicate the ‘Dig Pink’ game to breast cancer, so this is a chance to support someone here in the St. Thomas family and bring a smile to fellow volleyball player’s face,” said Head Volleyball Coach Trent Herman.

Just as pink represents breast cancer, orange represents leukemia. “Orange Out” t-shirts and “Sydneystrong” wristbands will be sold in the gym before the 7 p.m. volleyball game. Those who donate blood or wear their orange t-shirt or wristbands will be admitted the volleyball game for free. T-shirts are $20 and wristbands are $5. Proceeds from the t-shirts and wristbands will support a medical funds account in Sydney’s name.

“This really means a lot to me because I know the money we raise can help other kids, not just me,” Marquis said.

The blood drive will be held from noon – 7p.m. in Jerabeck Center. Make appointment in advance by going to www.giveblood.org. The drive will be listed under University of St. Thomas group code 3039. The “Oh My! Pocket Pies” mobile restaurant will be on site to serve gourmet pocket pies and burgers from 4:30-7 p.m. behind the Jerabeck Center.

To order t-shirts and wristbands or to make a contribution, call Dr. Jo Meier-Marquis at 713-525-3183 or e-mail meierj@stthom.edu.